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229-888-0888 • www.puttingpeoplefirst.law
MAY 2024
Thanks to My Mom, Who’s Always Planning Her Next Journey Adventure Always Awaits
Our moms shape us into the people we are today, and with Mother’s Day on the horizon, I can’t help but thank my mother for always living the best lesson: Never take yourself too seriously . She epitomizes the “stop and smell the roses” philosophy. Without fail, my mom has never met a stranger she couldn’t befriend within minutes. It starkly contrasts my more reserved nature, but I’ve always admired how she navigates the world with such openness. I probably took more from my dad’s side in that department! Family and the joy of life have always been her priorities, not work or money. My mom often reminds me that there’s more to life than courtroom battles and legal documents. Her approach to life has always been carefree, but that never stopped her from disciplining us when we needed it. Yet, she was always more than ready to cut loose when life called for it. I still chuckle at the memory of her declaring a random school day a “Rose Parade” day, which captures her spontaneous spirit. We were on our usual route to school in the morning when she suddenly said, “You know what? We’re not going to school today,” and off to the parade we went! This love for impromptu adventures has led to some of the most memorable moments of my childhood. Also, the title “animal lover” doesn’t even begin to cover it when describing my mom. From her little dog Mocha, a spunky cockerpoo, to Alfred, the rescue cat from Puerto Rico, her companions are a testament to her love for all creatures, great and small. Her stint at a vet office was less about the job and more about her joy in being surrounded by animals! Living in Colorado for about 20 years, my mom’s prior tales of hiking with her golden retriever, Bob, through snow-capped mountains and along scenic trails are the stuff of legend in our family. Her adventurous spirit, however, recently took a hit when she broke her ankle walking Stella and Rawson, her newer canine companions. Although hiking is off the table, her love for the outdoors remains.
She embraces her role as a grandmother with the same zest she applies to every aspect of her life, showering my children with love and whimsy. Now semi-retired, she dedicates her time to Flat Rock Playhouse in North Carolina, sharing her passion for the arts — an interest she passed down to my sister Ashley and me. Meanwhile, her passion for travel is undying, from dragging us to musicals like “Cats” (which, I admit, we didn’t fully appreciate as kids) to taking us all along the Eastern Seaboard to see historic Civil War sites in Gettysburg. Now, she’s planning her next grand adventure — a Viking river cruise in Europe with Aunt Laura. Her zest for life and new experiences is a trait I deeply admire. This Mother’s Day, as I celebrate the incredible woman who is my mom, I’m reminded of the joy and spontaneity she’s brought into our lives. Her example has taught me the importance of balance — between the serious world of law and the vibrant tapestry of life outside it. I aspire to embody her spirit, full of character and boundless love, in my journey as a parent, navigating the complexities of life. -William F. “Trey” Underwood, III
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Paw-some Adventures
GEAR UP YOUR PUP FOR A HIKING ADVENTURE
First-Aid Kit Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse. Boots While some dogs may resist wearing boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed.
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must- have hiking gear for your canine companion. Food and Water One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks.
Waste Bags Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. Emergency Harness Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
Advocate for Your Mental Health Simple Yet Powerful Ways to Relieve Stress
Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help you stay present and grounded, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress. Slow down, focus on your surroundings, and notice the positivity amid the stress. Mindfulness can be difficult at first, but with practice, it can become second nature and bring a whole new positive outlook. Healthy Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life is crucial. Set boundaries for work hours and ensure you have time for activities that bring you joy. This is particularly important for those whose work may be their primary source of stress. Prioritize Your Emotional Wellness In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s remember that taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. Our firm is here to support you, offering guidance in legal matters and helping you achieve overall well-being.
May, designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, serves as a poignant reminder of mental health’s profound impact on every facet of our lives. At our firm, we recognize that the stresses of life, compounded by legal challenges, can significantly impact mental well-being. In light of this, we’re committed to offering support through our legal services and by sharing the best resources on emotional wellness.
Understand the Impact According to a survey by Ipsos Global Advisor, more than half of Americans (52%) have felt stressed to the point that they believed they could not cope or continue at least once in the past year. With stress and mental health being such a prominent issue nationwide, it’s important that we recognize their impact and take a step toward achieving a balanced life. Tried and True Stress Relief Tips We know it’s easy to say you should exercise and be mindful, but it’s a whole different ballgame when trying to actually do it during a stressful stage in life. However, incrementally trying the following tips will make a difference. Routine Exercise: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. It improves your physical health and has a significant positive impact on your mood. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a more intense workout, find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine. Start small and increase your physical activity as you get stronger!
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Don’t Lose Your Case Before It Starts
Save Your Evidence and Protect Your Claim
The strength of your case can significantly hinge on the evidence you present. We’ve seen the entire spectrum of cases from minor to severe, and we cannot stress enough the critical importance of preserving evidence. This step is paramount in building a solid case and ensuring justice is served. Let’s explore how to safeguard evidence to fortify your personal injury claim. Take Immediate Action The moments following an accident or injury are crucial. If your situation involves a product liability claim, remember the mantra: no product, no case . Products that malfunction and cause harm are central to your claim. However, losing or destroying that product significantly diminishes your ability to prove your case. Similarly, for vehicle malfunctions leading to accidents, the car itself is vital evidence. Critical proof could be lost forever if you salvage the vehicle before an examination. Collect Photographic Evidence Nowadays, almost everyone carries a smartphone, making it easier than ever to document evidence. Take photographs or videos of the injury site, the product involved, or any relevant conditions contributing to the incident. Nearby homeowners or businesses may have surveillance footage that captured the accident. This visual evidence can be compelling, providing clear insights into your injury’s circumstances.
We Value You! At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., the trust we build with our clients is our most valuable asset. To show our appreciation, we would like to thank our clients who have referred others to us since our March newsletter: Consult an Attorney Promptly Perhaps the most crucial piece of advice is to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through evidence preservation, ensuring nothing is overlooked. They can also act swiftly to secure evidence at risk of being lost or destroyed, such as obtaining a court order to inspect a vehicle before it’s salvaged. Preserving evidence is foundational to a solid personal injury case. If you need our help collecting evidence and building your case, we’re only one phone call away at (229) 888-0888 . Gather Witness Testimonies Witnesses can play a pivotal role in personal injury cases. If any bystanders or individuals witnessed the event, ensure to collect their contact information. Their testimonies can corroborate your account of the incident and provide additional perspectives that bolster your case. Document Everything Keep a detailed record of everything related to your case. This includes medical records, receipts for expenses incurred due to the injury, and any correspondence with insurance companies. A well-documented trail of your injury’s impact on your life adds depth and credibility to your claim.
CITRUS BBQ CHICKEN Inspired by FoodNetwork.com
Ingredients • 8 skin-on chicken leg and thigh pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce • 2 tsp ground cumin • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika • Salt and pepper to taste
Doris Sears Latonya Martin Laquincy James
• 1 1/3 cups ketchup • 2 tbsp brown sugar
Danny Hayes Lynett McKinney
• Juice and zest of 1 orange • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Your recommendations are treasured by everyone at our office. Clients can also leave their comments about our services through Google Reviews! These statements give us critical feedback and help other clients who are facing stressful life situations so they can find dependable lawyers. Previous and current clients can also receive free notary services at our office. Learn more about this service by giving us a call at 229-888-0888.
Directions 1. Place chicken in a large resealable plastic bag. Combine all other ingredients in a small bowl. 2. Reserve 1 cup of the sauce and add the rest to the plastic bag. Toss to evenly coat the chicken and marinate overnight. 3. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add remaining sauce and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer to thicken sauce, about 10 minutes. Set aside. 4. On grill set for medium-high heat, arrange chicken skin side down. Cook until grill marks form, about 4 minutes. Flip chicken, cover grill, and cook until a thermometer inserted into thighs reads 165 F, about 20–25 minutes. 5. Serve with remaining sauce.
Thank you for trusting us to serve you!
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Heartfelt Hijinks of a Mom Who Lives by Her Own Rules PAGE 1 Paws and Paths! Mental Health Awareness and Advice for Challenging Times PAGE 2 Expert Advice on Preserving Personal Injury Evidence Citrus BBQ Chicken PAGE 3 The Oklahoma Panhandle: A Historical Gem PAGE 4
HOW OKLAHOMA CLAIMED ITS PANHANDLE
The shape of Oklahoma is quite unusual. It is an uneven square with a rectangular parcel of
outlaws who took advantage of the shaky legal status. Bootleggers in the region operated with impunity. They founded Beer City, a sanctuary of brothels and saloons. Finally, in 1890, Oklahoma Territory incorporated the Panhandle, and this rectangle became part of Oklahoma in 1907. Settlers could now claim their land under the Homestead Act, allowing them to mortgage their property to invest in farming equipment. Land developers built railroads, and the area’s population grew.
land jutting from the map’s left side, giving the state a saucepan-like shape. This parcel of land is thus called the Panhandle. Despite its unassuming landscape, it has one of the most fascinating histories of any region in America.
It was owned or occupied by Native tribes, Spain, and Mexico until the Republic of Texas claimed it in 1845 when Texas became a state. Even though Texas was a slave state, the Panhandle was above the line created by the Missouri Compromise, meaning states below 36 degrees 30 minutes north latitude were “slave states,” whereas those above weren’t. So, Texas relinquished its claim on the Panhandle. It was no longer part of any state. The federal government designated the nascent Panhandle as the Public Land Strip, subject to squatter’s rights. Settlers built towns and defended their own communities. These towns were rife with
Unfortunately, the Panhandle was the epicenter of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. Agriculture crumbled, and people left. The Panhandle’s population still hasn’t recovered: Less than 1% of the state’s population lives there. Today, ghost towns populate the Panhandle’s expansive horizon. Beer City has since become a wheat field, but some brave tourists still visit this narrow patch of land, keen on seeing its many abandoned places.
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